Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta won the individual award last season but failed to make the final three candidates this term, and Hoeness has little doubt as to who deserves to succeed the Spain international.

"There's really not a single reason for me not to give this trophy to Franck. He is the only legitimate winner," Hoeness told Sport Bild. "Messi and his Barcelona were comfortably beaten by Bayern in the Champions League.

"Ronaldo is not even a rival for Franck in my opinion. I think Franck is clearly the better player of the two.

"If Franck does not win the award, it's a political decision."

UEFA will announce the winner during the Champions League draw later on Thursday.